Brazil’s government has formally requested consultations at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to challenge a sweeping 50% tariff imposed by the United States on Brazilian goods, the administration announced on Wednesday.
The measure, enacted by U.S. President Donald Trump, applies to imports from Brazil—even with several exemptions—and was described by U.S. officials as a response to a “witch hunt” against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is on trial over alleged coup-plotting following his 2022 election loss.
Latin America’s largest economy argues that these steep levies “flagrantly violate core commitments made to the WTO,” highlighting how the organization’s dispute settlement system has been stalled since the first Trump administration. Before any litigation can proceed, WTO rules require disputing members to hold consultations in hope of reaching a negotiated outcome.
“The Brazilian government reiterates its willingness to negotiate and hopes that the consultations will contribute to a solution to the issue,” the statement added. Observers say a successful challenge could reset trade dynamics between the two powers and signal renewed confidence in multilateral dispute mechanisms.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
